PET vs. PP, Which is Better for Iced Coffee?

Choosing the right cup for iced coffee is not just about looks. The material affects drink clarity, safety, cost, and even flavor. For iced coffee, PET cups are usually preferred because they are crystal clear, strong, and give a premium look, while PP cups are more budget-friendly but less clear. Your choice depends on your brand, budget, and how customers will use the cup.

What is the difference between PP and PET cups?

These two common cup materials look similar at first glance, but there are important differences. PET cups are made from polyethylene terephthalate, offering high clarity and stiffness, while PP cups are made from polypropylene, which is more flexible and less transparent. In my years in packaging manufacturing, I have seen how PET and PP cups behave differently in real use. PET is the “glass-like” plastic. It makes iced coffee look more appealing because of its high transparency, almost like crystal. It is rigid and holds its shape well under pressure, which makes it feel premium. PP, on the other hand, has a slightly cloudy or milky appearance. It is softer and more flexible, which can be a benefit if you want a cup that resists cracking when squeezed. PET tends to cost more than PP, but many cafés accept the price for the visual appeal.

Is PET better than plastic?

This is a confusing question because PET itself is a type of plastic. PET is a specific type of plastic known for its clarity, strength, and recyclability, and is considered higher quality than some other plastics for beverage cups. ![PET plastic benefits](https://papercupshkl.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/iced-coffee-cups-3.png"PET plastic benefits") When people ask if PET is better than “plastic,” they usually mean low-cost mixed plastics or less refined polymers. PET is indeed a premium choice compared to those, especially for drink presentation. I recall one café owner telling me sales went up when they switched from PP to PET because customers posted more photos of their drinks. PET’s surface is smooth, which makes custom logo printing sharper. It is also widely accepted by recycling systems, which helps eco-conscious businesses. However, calling it “better” must be based on your purpose: if you need maximum transparency and a premium look for iced coffee, PET is better. If you value flexibility and low cost, PP can be the right choice.

Can PET plastic be used for hot liquids?

Many people assume all plastic cups work for both hot and cold drinks, but that is not true. PET plastic should not be used for hot liquids because it can soften and deform at high temperatures. It is designed for cold beverages only. From my production experience, PET cups can start to warp or lose shape at temperatures above 60°C (140°F). This means they are perfect for iced coffee, smoothies, and cold brew, but not for tea, hot coffee, or soups. If hot drinks are served in PET, there is a risk of burns if the cup softens or collapses. For hot beverages, we recommend paper cups with PE or PLA linings or PP-based plastic cups that can handle higher temperatures. Some clients try using thicker PET to handle warmer drinks, but this only offers limited improvement and is not a safe substitute for true hot drink cups.

Is PET BPA free?

This is a common concern for health and safety.

Yes, PET is BPA free. It does not contain bisphenol-A, the chemical often linked to health risks. I often reassure my customers that PET is one of the safest plastics for food and beverages. Unlike polycarbonate plastics, PET is manufactured without BPA. This makes it suitable for long-term storage of drinks in bottles or cups. In the food packaging industry, PET is approved for contact with food by major health and safety authorities in many countries. While PET is safe for cold drinks, you must still avoid exposing it to high heat, as extreme temperatures can break down plastics in ways that could affect safety. Choosing BPA-free cups is both a marketing advantage and a genuine health assurance you can offer your customers.

Conclusion

For iced coffee, PET cups win for clarity and premium feel, but PP cups are cheaper and more heat-tolerant. PET is safe, BPA free, and best for cold drinks only.